Families and Community Remember Lives Lost in Tennessee Highway Tragedy

In the days following the crash, grief and disbelief rippled through Knoxville and beyond as friends, relatives, and neighbors gathered to honor the memories of Jessiah Plemons, Lily Rose, and Madison Davis.

Jessiah’s mother, Michelle Plemon, described her son as a man of compassion who worked tirelessly to help others struggling with addiction. Having turned his own life around, he sponsored individuals in recovery, spoke at local jails, and offered guidance to those seeking hope. “He cared more about helping people than himself,” she said.

Jessiah was also deeply involved in his family’s life, stepping up to help raise his sister’s two children to keep them out of state care. Lily, who had a son and daughter of her own, cherished motherhood and dreamed of uniting her and Jessiah’s children into one loving family.

Their friend Madison Davis, who was traveling with them that night, was remembered as kind-hearted and loyal. Friends said she had joined the newlyweds to celebrate their marriage over the weekend.

Authorities with the Colorado State Patrol confirmed the investigation remains ongoing, with no factors — including speed, impairment, or distraction — yet ruled out.

The crash has left an enduring mark on the community, with vigils held in remembrance of the three young lives lost too soon. “They had so much ahead of them,” said family members. “This tragedy reminds us how fragile life truly is.”

As the families continue to grieve, local churches and recovery organizations have stepped forward to offer support, emphasizing unity, healing, and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones.